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UW-W Football Upset by Blue Devils on the Road

October 12, 2024
Brian Wilterdink hauls in a 73-yard passing touchdown from Jason Ceniti Saturday (Olivia Zinanni)

By Angela Kelm
Asst. Athletic Director for Sports Information

Menomonie, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater football team [D3football.com #10] fell to UW-Stout [D3football.com unranked] 29-27 on the road Saturday afternoon marking the Warhawks’ first loss to the Blue Devils since 2001. 

Turnovers proved costly for UW-Whitewater in the game as a fumble led to a UW-Stout touchdown early in the second and an interception played into a Blue Devil field goal in the third. 

The Warhawks won the toss and deferred but gained possession on the third play of the game courtesy of a fumble. Dyson Klubertanz was covering on a short completion, forcing a loose ball as he hit the receiver. The fumble was picked up by Deven Magli at the Stout 37. The early turnover led to the first score of the game, a 25-yard field goal from Jackson Fox. 

The Blue Devils came back with a field goal of their own to knot the game before Tyler Vasey responded with his second kickoff return for a touchdown. Vasey hauled in the kick at the five and cruised through a pack of UWS special teams players before bolting up the sideline for the touchdown. The sophomore now holds the UWW record for kickoffs returned for touchdown in a career with three. 

The back-and-forth battle continued with the Blue Devils marching 70 yards to even the score 10-10, but the Warhawks had another big-play response.

On the first play of UWW’s next drive, Jason Ceniti hit Brian Wilterdink on a deep ball for the 73-yard touchdown. Fox’s extra point made it 17-10 Warhawks as the game headed into the second quarter. 

UW-Stout narrowed the gap with a 38-yard field goal early in the second. The Blue Devils secured their first lead of the game after a fumble recovery on the UW-Whitewater’s next drive led to a Stout touchdown and a 20-17 advantage for the host institution. 

Fox knotted the game once again with a 39-yard field goal on the team’s next drive, but UW-Stout would tally the final score of the half on a 26-yard field goal to make it 23-20 Blue Devils at the break. 

The lone score of the third quarter came on another Blue Devil field goal, this time from 25-yards out. Stout’s kicker hit another early in the fourth, a 40-yarder, to give the Blue Devils a 29-20 lead. 

Late in the fourth, the UWW defense came up with a big stop to force a punt. Pinned inside their own 20, with less than four minutes to go, the Warhawks got to work. Ceniti hit Wilterdink for 15, then Nick Wind for 12 more. On the next play, Ceniti found Tamir Thomas on a short completion that led to a 57-yard touchdown. The extra point narrowed the gap to two, 29-27 with less than three to play. 

A flag on the first onside kick attempt pushed UWW back five yards. The second attempt did not go the full 10 needed as the Blue Devils took over at the Warhawks’ 37. 

The UW-Whitewater defense stiffened forcing a field goal attempt that missed the uprights and brought the Warhawk offense back onto the field at their own 29 with just 70 seconds left in the game.

UWW opened the drive with an 18-yard completion to Wind. After a sack led to a loss of eight, a five-yard pass was caught in bounds as seconds ticked away. A deep pass fell incomplete to stop the clock, but the Warhawks took a delay of game before getting off the next play. On the final play of the game, an illegal forward pass was called as Ceniti tried to elude defenders and get the ball downfield ending the game. 

Ceniti was 16-27 for 281 yards with a pair of touchdowns and two interceptions. Thomas led the rushing attack with 36 yards on 14 attempts. Wilterdink was the top target on the day. He hauled in five passes for 113 receiving yards and a touchdown. 

Ethan Gallagher paced the defense with 11 tackles including 2.5 tackles for a loss of six yards. 

WAA Artist Reception for Two Exhibits: Studio 84 Past & Present; Electric Eclectic IV – Saturday

October 11, 2024

WAA is pleased to host an Artist Reception for the two exhibits currently on display in the Cultural Arts Center Gallery during the month of October, Studio 84: Past & Present and the Electric Eclectic IV invitational photography exhibitions. The reception will be held Saturday, October 12 from 12 pm – 4 pm, with the Studio 84 program beginning at 1 pm and the Electric Eclectic IV program beginning at 2 pm.

A previous Whitewater Banner article provides information regarding the Electric Eclectic IV exhibition. See below for the Studio 84 exhibit.


Studio 84: Past & Present

A Review of the Past and Present Art of Studio 84

Exhibit: October 3 – 27, 2024

Reception: Saturday, October 12, Noon – 4 pm, Program at 1 pm

The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA), in collaboration with Studio 84, proudly presents Past and Present. Past and Present is an extraordinary exhibition that celebrates Studio 84’s rich history and vibrant future, along with the many artists who have contributed their creative works over the years.

The exhibit will be open to the public from October 3 to 27, 2024, with a special reception on October 12 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, offering a chance to meet the artists and experience their creative journey.

This exhibition highlights the collaborative spirit between the WAA and Studio 84. Studio 84, a unique non-profit art studio located in Whitewater fosters inclusivity through the arts. Studio 84 focuses on providing creative opportunities for all individuals, with an emphasis on supporting artists with disabilities. The studio’s philosophy encourages participants to explore a variety of artistic mediums, providing individualized guidance based on each person’s abilities and goals. With programs designed to nurture creativity and self-expression, Studio 84 promotes personal growth and community engagement.

Founded by artist Deborah Blackwell, Studio 84 has been a cornerstone of the Whitewater arts community since 2009. Its mission is to offer fully accessible artistic experiences that enrich lives, empowering individuals through self-directed activities and a focus on their unique strengths. Over the past 15 years, the studio has evolved, providing a wide range of visual arts programming and recently introducing a dance program. This exhibit will showcase a range of media, reflecting both traditional and contemporary artistic approaches, while celebrating the growth and creativity of all contributors.

Join us in celebrating the power of art and community.

Whitewater Unified School District Elementary Schools Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

October 11, 2024

Lakeview, Lincoln, and Washington Elementary Schools are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with classroom and building-wide activities to promote and educate students on the rich Hispanic culture many community members share.

The month-long series of activities is designed to deepen students’ understanding and appreciation of
Hispanic cultures. They highlight various traditions, histories, and contributions of Hispanic communities,
offering students meaningful opportunities to learn about and celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds
that enrich the Whitewater community.

Lincoln Elementary School kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant, educational assembly led
by its multilingual staff earlier this month. “Hispanic Heritage Month is such an important time for us to
come together in our school community and recognize the diverse backgrounds that make us stronger,”
said Lincoln Elementary Principal Brad Gefvert. “We’re excited to continue celebrating and learning from
one another as we explore the many cultures of our students and staff.”

At Lakeview, classrooms have enjoyed activities like decorating doors with vibrant designs that highlight
Hispanic traditions and contributions. Daily announcements feature fun and educational facts about
various Spanish-speaking countries. In art class, students have created projects inspired by renowned
Latino artists, while in music class, they’ve been learning and singing songs from across Latin America.

Teachers at Washington Elementary enjoyed a lunch with authentic ethnic foods gifted by families. Fun
facts about Hispanic culture are shared during morning announcements, and students look forward to a
“Día de los Muertos” or “Day of the Dead” art project to learn about this beautiful tradition.

WUSD is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every student’s culture is honored and
celebrated. Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15 to October 15, plays a vital
role in supporting this effort.

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by the Whitewater Unified School District.

DHS Encourages Wisconsinites to Get Vaccinated as Respiratory Illness Season Begins

October 11, 2024

Vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV available

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is encouraging Wisconsinites to get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses this fall. An updated COVID-19 and a new annual flu vaccine are now available to protect against COVID-19 and flu strains circulating this season. RSV vaccines are also available for people who are eligible, including most older adults and people who are pregnant. An RSV antibody to protect infants from severe illness is also offered.

“In the fall, viruses like flu, RSV, and COVID-19, start to increase across Wisconsin and spread through communities, workplaces, schools, and other places people live, work, and play,” said State Health Officer Paula Tran. “While they may only cause mild sickness for some people, for others, like older adults, infants, and those with underlying health risks, they can cause serious illness and even death. Vaccines are safe and effective, and we encourage Wisconsinites to talk to their health care providers to see what’s best for them.”

Currently in Wisconsin, COVID-19 activity is moderately elevated statewide. Flu and RSV activity is low, but levels are expected to increase. Every year there is an increase in respiratory infections during and after the holidays. DHS recommends the following seasonal vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV.

Flu (Influenza)

The flu vaccine is recommended annually for everyone 6 months and older. This is especially important for those at highest risk of experiencing severe symptoms, including older adults, people with chronic health conditions, people who are pregnant, and young children.

COVID-19

It is recommended everyone 6 months and older get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The 2024–2025 vaccine is formulated to protect against currently circulating variants of COVID-19 and will protect people from the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 illness this fall and winter.

RSV

People who are age 60 and older

A single dose of RSV vaccine is recommended for people who are age 60 or older who have not already received an RSV vaccine, especially people who are:

  • Age 75 and older.
  • People ages 60–74 who have certain chronic medical conditions, like lung or heart disease, or who live in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities and are at increased risk of severe RSV.

RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine, meaning older adults do not need to get a dose every RSV season.

Pregnant people and infants

DHS recommends either maternal RSV vaccination or infant and young child immunization with monoclonal antibodies to prevent severe disease in infants. Most infants will not need both. Certain pregnant people should get the maternal RSV vaccine to protect their infant, because infants are especially at risk of severe RSV. CDC recommends one dose of the vaccine be given to pregnant people when they are 32–36 weeks and 6 days pregnant, between September 1 and January 31.

If a pregnant person does not receive the maternal RSV vaccine, an RSV antibody shot is recommended for infants less than 8 months old and some toddlers to protect them from severe RSV. This antibody, called nirsevimab, will be available October 1- March 31.

How to get a vaccine

Vaccine appointments are being made available by health care providers, clinics, and pharmacies. To find and schedule a vaccine, Wisconsin residents are encouraged to check with their primary care provider, local or Tribal health department, community clinic, or visit vaccines.gov. If they do not have health insurance, or their health insurance does not cover vaccines, there are programs that can help, including the Vaccines for Children program and Vaccines for Adults program.

Eligible Wisconsinites can get their flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccine at the same time.

“Vaccines are proven to be a safe and effective way to protect yourself and those around you from the most common respiratory viruses this season. Not only can vaccines prevent the most severe symptoms of these illnesses, they can also reduce the chance that you can spread disease to others,” said Dr. Stephanie Schauer, DHS Division of Public Health Immunization Program Manager. “In addition to getting vaccinated, we encourage Wisconsinites to cover coughs and sneezes, wash or sanitize your hands often, and maintain awareness of the respiratory viruses currently spreading in your community to assess risk when making plans.”

Respiratory season tools and data

As part of its year-round mission to track the spread of illness in Wisconsin, DHS monitors both vaccination rates across the state as well as overall respiratory virus activity reported to DHS by health care providers and labs across the state. The data will be available on new respiratory data webpages summarizing overall respiratory activityemergency department data, and laboratory testing data. DHS also offers immunization data dashboards for COVID-19flu, and RSV for Wisconsin residents.

Our Readers Share: Mark Dorn – Noontime visitor enjoying lunch

October 11, 2024

Mark Dorn writes, “I was startled to see this huge praying mantis leisurely enjoying its lunch at Trippe Lake Village this afternoon. It was so big it reminded me the classic 1957 “B” horror film, “The Deadly Mantis”… 

Our thanks to Mark Dorn for these great photos.

— Our Readers Share: We hope that you might have something that you’d be willing to share.  Anything that’s been created by someone else should, of course, be credited, and you should ask their permission if you’re able. We cannot post copyrighted material without permission. We can’t guarantee that we’ll have space for all submissions, and contributions will be subject to editorial board approval. The one definite exclusion is anything politically oriented. We will assume that you’re willing for us to include your name as the submitter unless you indicate that you prefer to remain anonymous. Send to whitewaterbanner@gmail.com. Thanks for thinking about this!

#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: Andersen Library mid ’60s

October 10, 2024

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society. Continuing our look at UW-Whitewater buildings, this week’s image is a mid-1960’s view of the Andersen Library and administration building. The new library building on campus was started in 1951 and completed in 1953. Then, in 1965, a large addition was added. This addition and parking lot begin the alteration of Main Street, an area of large historic houses. Several houses were demolished and more demolitions along Prairie Street were to come. Demolitions of houses for new buildings for the college changed the appearance of this part of Whitewater forever. With more changes, this building still serves as the library today.

Join us next week for another look at a mid-20th-century university building.

(#2173PC, Whitewater Historical Society)

Community Pride Celebrated by Approx. 400 at Whitewater’s 4th Annual Pride Rally

October 10, 2024

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Pride Inc.

Joy, laughter, music and pride filled the Cravath Lakefront Park at Whitewater’s 4th Annual Pride Rally on October 5.  

The day included music, performances, over 30 vendors and a pet parade. Speakers included Whitewater’s City Manager, John Weidl; UW-Whitewater’s Chancellor, Dr. Corey A. King; Whitewater High School’s Associate Principal, Kate McNulty; and Fair Wisconsin’s Policy and Advocacy Director, Sean O’Brien.


“Whitewater was a joyful, fun-filled place on Saturday,” said Camden Harlan, President of Whitewater Pride Inc. “All in our community were welcomed and felt safe and loved.”

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Warhawk Marching Band performed in full regalia.  Dr. Corey King, Chancellor, said, “We are an inclusive community. We are united, and we will stay that way. We will be strong, and I appreciate that very much.”

City Manager John Weidl said, “I’m happy to have been one of the speakers at the Whitewater Pride event this year. It’s a perfect example of supporting Whitewater’s mission to embrace the cultural and educational opportunities that come with a thriving University and an increasingly diverse population. Seeing our community come together in support of inclusivity and acceptance was truly inspiring. A big thank you to the organizers and everyone involved for making this event such a meaningful success!”


Whitewater High School Associate Principal, Kate McNulty, said, “I’m proud to have participated in sharing the district’s Inclusionary Statement. It was impactful to have the City of Whitewater, UW-W, and WUSD represented and united in support of this mission, demonstrating that Whitewater is a welcoming and diverse community.”


Sponsors of the Pride Rally who contributed financially to help support the local LGBTQ+ community include: The Coburn Family, Madison College, Generac, Whitewater Unites Lives, TDS Telecom, The Dem Party of Wisconsin, Stellar Vintage, Botanica Beauty Parlour, Fort HealthCare, Fort Community Credit Union, Discover Whitewater Chamber of Commerce, and T-Mobile of Lake Geneva.

“These community partners not only provided financial support to the work of Whitewater Pride, but they also stood proud with our LGBTQ+ community members and allies. This statement of support reinforces the values of our communities that all are welcomed, valued, and embraced,” Kim Simes said.


Event supporters included Whitewater High School GSA, PB Poorman Pride Center, Irvin L. Young Memorial Library, City of Whitewater, Whitewater Unites Lives, The Book Teller, The Sweet Spot, UW-W CARE, and Whitewater League of Women Voters.

Plans are underway for next year’s Pride event slated for Saturday, October 4, 2025.

For more information visit www.whitewaterpride.org, Instagram @whitewaterpride, or Facebook at Whitewater Pride.

Jefferson County Administrator Proposes 2025 Budget: Meeting scheduled for public comment

October 10, 2024

Jefferson County Administrator Proposes Budget to County Board
Board invites residents to October 22nd meeting for public comment

Jefferson County Administrator Ben Wehmeier, on October 8, formally proposed a 2025 budget for consideration by the County Board of Supervisors. For the second year in a row, this proposal includes a reduction in both the debt levy and the mill rate. The proposal includes $109,600,674 in total expenditures.

Drawing on the same themes that were presented during the Finance Committee hearings in September, Wehmeier kicked off the meeting by describing the challenges and opportunities for next year and the years ahead. Rapidly increasing costs for technology and personnel costs like health insurance have put pressure on every department. Slowdowns in state aid and sales tax collections statewide are also holding revenues flatter than in recent years.

Prior budget decisions, however, have freed up funding to offset some of these challenges. The County Board’s decision to pay off debt early has resulted in more than $1 million in savings, including $588,812 in the upcoming budget. Pro-growth policies and a highly regarded quality of life led to a 7.2% increase in equalized value across the county, allowing for a mill rate cut of 8.4%. This has put Jefferson County in a position to reduce taxes for the second consecutive budget.

The Board will hold a public hearing on the budget proposal, open to all members of the public, at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 22nd at the Jefferson County Courthouse. The final vote on the budget will occur on November 12th. The budget can be found on the county website at www.jeffersoncountywi.gov under the “Government” tab.

Editor’s comment: The above press release was issued by Jefferson County.

Obituaries

Obituary: Edward W. Hamilton, 83, of Davenport, IA

Edward W. HamiltonApril 3,1941 – October 26, 2024 Edward “Edjo” Wickman Hamilton, 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at home.  Ed was born in Evanston, Illinois and moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin with his family when he was eight years old.  He attended Whitewater High School and then graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater with a bachelor of science degree.  He also served two years in the army.  He moved to Davenport, Iowa in 1971 and worked at John Deere Davenport Works until he retired in 2001.  Then he followed a dream, moved back to Whitewater and … Read more

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Obituary: Verne Paul Schrank, 94

Verne Paul Schrank was born on March 9, 1930 at home on the family farm in Lima Township, Rock County, to Arthur and Marie (Witte) Schrank.  He attended the Sturtevant one room school which closed when he graduated in 1944. He attended Whitewater High School and graduated in 1948. Verne farmed with his parents until 1967 when he moved to Whitewater and worked for the Whitewater Unified School District as a custodian – courier for 27 years. Verne served on various boards at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, as well as playing on the dartball team for many years. Verne … Read more

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Obituary: Janine Marie (Dickerson) Weiss, 94

After a long full life, Janine Marie (Dickerson) Weiss was called home to the Lord. Janine was born on April Fool’s Day, 1930 in Milwaukee. She grew up enjoying Trolleys, dancing and school with her sisters, Donna Domagalski, Marcyl Howel, Karen Moczynski and her parents, Glenn and Lucille Dickerson. In 1950, she married Frederic Weiss in a little church in Three Lakes WI. Shortly after, the first of 5 kids was born with the next 2 shortly after. Denice Lucille (Edward DeGroot), David Arthur, and Dana Lynn (Stephen Lind). After a breather Debra Beth (Alyn Jones) and Donna Raye (Dale … Read more

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Obituary: Raymond Miles, 96

Raymond Miles, 96, Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Our House Senior Living in Whitewater. Raymond was born on February 10, 1928, in Elkhorn, WI to Rueben and Norma Miles. He served in the US Army. On June 18, 1955, Raymond married Waverly Sutherland in Whitewater, WI. He enjoyed a long and successful career as a Livestock Dealer. In retirement, he cherished time spent with his family and remained informed on the farming community. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Waverly of Whitewater, sons Eddie of Madison and Todd (Barbara) Miles of Sarasota FL, … Read more

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Obituary: Connie Jean Sukowski

Connie Jean Sukowski embarked on her next big adventure on the evening of Friday, November 8, 2024. Connie enjoyed decades of adventures with friends and family. She spent 36 years teaching 2nd and 3rd grade students in the Palmyra Eagle School District, working alongside many cherished colleagues and friends. Connie and her husband, Patrick Theodore Sukowski, shared 55 and a half years of marriage. Together they raised four children: Peter, Allan, Ann and Kevin Sukowski. She took great joy in watching her five grandchildren grow into amazing adults: Sonora Sukowski, Brianne Hebbe, Jared Gundrum-Sukowski, Nolan Causey, and Lore Lai Schimmel. … Read more

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Nancy Lou Hallock Cooper, 88

Nancy Lou Hallock Cooper passed away November 8, 2024 due to complications of lungcancer. Nancy was born on April 20, 1936 in Springfield,  MA to Howard and Barbara (Corliss) Hallock. As a child, Nancy spent every summer in her beloved Piermont, NH where she and her brothers “helped” the local farmer with his chores, including riding in the truck with the milk cans every morning.  She enjoyed swimming in the local brooks, picking berries, going to the nearby library, visiting with cousins, and playing croquet every evening.  As she grew older, she spent time as a camper and then a camp … Read more

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Obituary: James Robert Trier (Jimbo), 89

James Robert Trier (Jimbo), passed away on November 10, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on December 22, 1934, in New Holstein, WI, to George and Frances Trier. He spent his later years residing in Whitewater, WI. Jim began his teaching career as a high school mathematics teacher and then dedicated 55 years of his life to education as a mathematics professor at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He was the chairman of the faculty senate as well. He had a passion for math and an engaging teaching style, which made him a student favorite. He was known for telling … Read more

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Memorial Celebration: Martin Jack Martinelli, 64

Editor’s note: Martin Martinelli’s obituary may be found here.

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Obituary: Juan Manuel “Manny” Rodriguez, 56

Juan Manuel “Manny” Rodriguez, 56, of Whitewater, WI, passed away on Oct 31, 2024. He was born in Fort Atkinson, WI, on November 14, 1967 to Ponciano and Blanca Rodriguez. He graduated from Whitewater High School and continued his education at Gateway, earning a degree in marketing. He had a love for helping people and worked in healthcare for over 30 years as a CNA.  He enjoyed shooting darts with his lifelong friends: Robert Bramley, Brian Quass, and Todd Piper.  To know Manny, you knew he had a love for his Washington Redskins, now known as the Commanders.  He loved to play … Read more

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Death Notice: James Trier

James Trier, Whitewater, passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at Edgerton Hospital.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be on held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Whitewater.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Whitewater. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 1:00 pm until the time of the service.   A full obituary will follow.  Nitardy Funeral Home, Whitewater is assisting the family.

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